In the News: GOING GREEN

Group of prominent spas forms environmentally themed trade network

A group of six prominent North America spas have announced  the formation of a network dedicated to bringing environmentally sustainable operating practices to the spa industry. Seen as a needed resource for the spa community, the Green Spa Network states that it seeks to help spas and spa professionals reap the financial and social benefits from implementing environmentally friendly business practices, much in the news today. The organization’s stated intention is to synergize greening efforts among network members as a way to support spas in reducing their ecological impact and making a smaller carbon footprint, while improving energy efficiencies and reducing operational costs.

Almost 14,000 facilities generate $9.7 billion in annual revenues, making spas  a leading leisure industry which is naturally suited to be at the forefront of the green movement. Says long time spa expert and founder of Spectrec, Janice Gronvold, "From day spas to destination resorts, the industry typically utilizes environmental resources for a myriad of water-based treatments, laundry services, pools, verdant landscaping, and golf courses, making it a major consumer of water, energy, and precious natural resources." Spas adopting green practices not only reduce their  environmental impact, but also supports spa marketing programs, raises environmental awareness among guests, and contributes to spa financial performance. She says, "Conservation is clearly a competitive edge."

The inaugural program of the Green Spa Network  is being conducted in collaboration with one of the nation's leading environmental management firms, Natural Logic, Inc. Each participating spa, or Seed Spa,  has committed to having an in-depth environmental assessment and action plan to provide them with the expertise to assist other spas that are interested in joining the Network. Opportunity remains for a few more spas to become members of the prestigious founding group. These founding Seed Spas will meet in Monte Rio, California April 27, 28 and 29, along  with the organizers of the association, and will discuss their eco-assessments and plan the next phase of the collaboration.

The concept began over four years ago when a group of spa leaders met to explore ways to encourage sustainability in the industry. In 2004, the International Spa Association established the Sustainability Taskforce, which brought exposure to greening issues through conferences, speakers, articles in trade magazines and in green listings on the web. Several members desired to do more, resulting in the GSN.